Nike SB Portmore II Solar: Skate Shoes Review

by Alex Braham 46 views

Hey guys! Ever been on the hunt for a solid pair of skate shoes that not only look cool but can also handle some serious shredding? Well, today, we're diving deep into the Nike SB Portmore II Solar. This shoe has been a favorite for a while now, and for good reason. It’s got a great blend of style, comfort, and durability, all at a price that won’t completely drain your wallet. So, buckle up, because we're about to break down everything you need to know about these kicks, from their design and features to how they perform on the board and where you can grab a pair.

Design and Aesthetics of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar

Alright, let's kick things off with the look and feel of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar. These shoes are all about that classic, clean aesthetic. Nike really nailed the simple yet stylish design here. The Portmore II Solar typically features a low-profile silhouette, which means they sit nice and close to your feet. This is a huge plus for board feel, which is crucial for skaters. You want to feel connected to your board, and these shoes definitely help with that.

The upper part of the shoe is usually made from suede or canvas, sometimes a combination of both. Suede is a popular choice because it's super durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, which is essential for skating. Canvas, on the other hand, is lighter and more breathable, making it a good option for warmer weather. The Nike SB Portmore II Solar often incorporates subtle branding, like the iconic Nike Swoosh on the sides and the SB logo on the tongue or heel. This keeps the design clean and doesn't overdo it with flashy graphics, so they're versatile enough to wear with pretty much any outfit.

One of the standout features of the design is the vulcanized sole. This type of sole construction involves attaching the rubber sole to the upper using heat and pressure, resulting in a flexible and durable shoe. This flexibility is key for skateboarding because it allows your feet to move naturally and gives you a better feel for the board. The sole also usually has a herringbone pattern, which provides excellent grip. This grip is super important for preventing slips and helping you stick those landings. The Portmore II Solar is designed to look good both on and off the board. They're not overly bulky, so they don't look out of place when you're just chilling with your friends or walking around town. Overall, the design of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar is a testament to Nike's ability to create skate shoes that are both functional and fashionable. The combination of clean lines, durable materials, and subtle branding makes these shoes a winner in the style department. Plus, the low-profile design and vulcanized sole make them perfect for serious skateboarding.

Key Features and Technology

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Nike SB Portmore II Solar tick. These shoes are packed with features that enhance both comfort and performance. First off, let's talk about the Solarsoft sockliner. This is a key component when it comes to comfort. The Solarsoft sockliner is a dual-density foam insole designed to provide cushioning and impact absorption. It's essentially like having a little cloud inside your shoe. This extra cushioning is super important because skateboarding involves a lot of jumping and landing, which can put a lot of stress on your feet and joints. The Solarsoft sockliner helps to absorb those impacts, making your rides more comfortable and reducing fatigue.

Next up, the vulcanized sole. As we mentioned earlier, this is a crucial feature for skate shoes. The vulcanized construction provides flexibility and a great board feel, which allows you to have better control and sensitivity on your board. The herringbone pattern on the outsole (the bottom of the shoe) also plays a vital role. This pattern is designed to provide excellent grip, so you can stay locked in and avoid slipping. This grip is especially important when you're trying to land tricks or navigate different surfaces. The upper materials also contribute to the overall performance of the shoe. Whether it's suede or canvas, these materials are chosen for their durability and breathability. Suede is known for its ability to withstand abrasion, which is essential for skateboarding, where your shoes are constantly rubbing against your grip tape. Canvas, on the other hand, is a lighter and more breathable option, making it great for warmer weather. The Nike SB Portmore II Solar often includes a padded tongue and collar. This padding adds extra comfort and helps to protect your ankles. It also contributes to the overall fit of the shoe, making it feel more snug and secure. The construction of the shoe is pretty straightforward, but that’s a good thing. It makes for a responsive, flexible, and comfortable shoe. Nike SB focuses on building something that does its job without any extra fluff, and that is why you can rely on the Nike SB Portmore II Solar to perform. So, whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, the features of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar work together to create a shoe that is built to handle the demands of skateboarding, while also keeping your feet comfortable and protected.

Performance on the Board

Alright, let's talk about how the Nike SB Portmore II Solar actually performs when you're out there shredding. Performance is obviously a super important aspect. How do they feel, how do they hold up, and do they help you land those tricks? The short answer is: they're pretty darn good! The low-profile design is a huge win for board feel. As mentioned before, you want to feel connected to your board, and the Portmore II Solar delivers on that front. This close-to-the-board feel allows for better control and precision. You can feel the nuances of your board and react quickly to any adjustments you need to make.

The vulcanized sole provides excellent flexibility, which is crucial for skateboarding. This flexibility allows your feet to move naturally, giving you a better range of motion and enabling you to flick your board with ease. The herringbone pattern on the outsole offers solid grip. You'll find that your feet stay firmly planted on the board, even during those gnarly landings. This grip boosts your confidence and helps you stick those tricks. Durability is a key factor, and the Portmore II Solar holds up pretty well. The suede or canvas upper, combined with the vulcanized sole, can withstand the constant abrasion that comes with skateboarding. They’re designed to endure a lot of wear and tear, and even after some serious sessions, they tend to hold their shape and structure. The comfort factor is also a major plus. The Solarsoft sockliner provides excellent cushioning, absorbing impacts and reducing fatigue. You can skate for hours without your feet feeling totally wrecked. The padded tongue and collar add to the overall comfort and support.

While the Nike SB Portmore II Solar is a solid performer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some skaters might prefer a shoe with more padding around the ankles for extra protection, but the Portmore II Solar strikes a good balance between support and flexibility. Overall, the Nike SB Portmore II Solar is a great choice for skaters who prioritize board feel, flexibility, and comfort. They’re durable enough to handle the wear and tear of skateboarding, and they provide the grip and support you need to land your tricks. Whether you're cruising around the skate park or hitting the streets, these shoes will help you perform your best. The combination of board feel, flexibility, grip, and comfort makes the Nike SB Portmore II Solar a reliable choice for skaters of all levels.

Durability and Lifespan

So, how long can you expect the Nike SB Portmore II Solar to last? Durability is a crucial factor when it comes to skate shoes, because let's face it, we put them through a lot! The good news is, these shoes are designed to withstand a fair amount of abuse. The upper materials, whether suede or canvas, are chosen for their durability. Suede, in particular, is known for its ability to resist abrasion, which is essential for skateboarding. You know, when your shoes are constantly rubbing against the grip tape and the ground. The vulcanized sole construction is also a major contributor to the shoe's durability. It’s designed to be flexible, but also tough enough to handle the impacts and stresses of skating. The seams and stitching are usually well-constructed, adding to the overall longevity of the shoe.

The lifespan of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar can vary depending on a few factors. First, how often do you skate? If you're out there shredding every day, you can expect the shoes to wear out faster than if you're just skating occasionally. The type of skating you do also plays a role. If you're doing a lot of flip tricks or skating on rough surfaces, your shoes will likely wear out more quickly. Even the way you treat your shoes affects their lifespan. Regular maintenance can extend their life. Keeping them clean and dry and avoiding excessive wear and tear can make a difference. Generally, you can expect the Nike SB Portmore II Solar to last a decent amount of time. With moderate use, they can last for several months or even up to a year. However, if you're a serious skater who puts in a lot of hours on the board, you might need to replace them more frequently. Of course, all shoes will eventually show signs of wear and tear. The sole might start to wear down, the upper materials might fray, and the cushioning might compress over time. But overall, the Nike SB Portmore II Solar offers a good balance of durability and performance. With proper care and reasonable use, they should hold up well and provide a good value for your money. If you are serious about skateboarding, you will have to expect to replace your shoes every now and then, but these are a good choice that should last and protect you.

Comfort and Fit

Alright, let’s talk about how the Nike SB Portmore II Solar feels on your feet. Comfort is definitely a key factor when you're spending hours on your board. Luckily, these shoes have some features that help keep your feet happy. The Solarsoft sockliner is a major contributor to the comfort level. As mentioned before, this dual-density foam insole provides excellent cushioning and impact absorption. It’s like having a soft, supportive bed for your feet. This cushioning is particularly beneficial when you're landing tricks or skating on rough surfaces. The padded tongue and collar also add to the comfort. They provide extra cushioning and support around your ankles, which can help prevent blisters and reduce fatigue. The materials used in the upper, whether it's suede or canvas, also play a role in the comfort and fit. Suede tends to mold to your feet over time, providing a more personalized fit. Canvas is often lighter and more breathable, which is great for warmer weather. The fit of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar is generally true to size. Most people find that they fit comfortably in their regular shoe size. However, it's always a good idea to check the size chart and read reviews from other users before you make a purchase. Some people might prefer to go up half a size if they have wider feet or like a little extra room in the toe box. The low-profile design of the shoe contributes to the overall comfort and fit. It allows your feet to sit close to the ground, giving you a better feel for the board and improving your balance. This snug fit also helps prevent your feet from sliding around inside the shoe. Overall, the Nike SB Portmore II Solar provides a comfortable and secure fit. The combination of the Solarsoft sockliner, padded tongue and collar, and well-chosen materials creates a shoe that feels good on your feet, even during long skate sessions. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, the comfort level of the shoe will keep you out there shredding for a long time!

Style and Versatility

Beyond performance, the Nike SB Portmore II Solar nails the style and versatility game. These shoes boast a clean and classic aesthetic that makes them a great choice whether you are on the board or just chilling with friends. The low-profile design, simple lines, and subtle branding give them a timeless appeal. They don’t scream for attention, but they still look stylish. The versatility of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar is another major plus. They pair well with pretty much any outfit. You can rock them with your favorite jeans, shorts, or even chinos. They work well for everyday wear. The neutral color options make them easy to match with different outfits. You will often find them available in classic colors like black, white, gray, and navy. They also come in a variety of other colorways, so you can choose a pair that best suits your style. The clean and simple design makes them suitable for a wide range of activities. You can wear them to school, work, or just hanging out. They are not overly bulky, so they don’t look out of place in any situation. The Nike SB Portmore II Solar is a great choice for those who want a shoe that is both functional and fashionable. Their classic design makes them timeless. The clean look of the shoes also makes them a great option for those who want a versatile shoe that can be worn in many situations. Overall, the Nike SB Portmore II Solar strikes a perfect balance between style and functionality. They look good, feel good, and perform well. Whether you're hitting the streets or the skate park, these shoes will help you look and feel your best.

Pros and Cons

So, let's break down the Nike SB Portmore II Solar into a quick pros and cons list to give you a clear overview:

Pros:

  • Great Board Feel: The low-profile design and vulcanized sole provide excellent board feel.
  • Durable: The suede or canvas upper and vulcanized sole construction offer good durability.
  • Comfortable: The Solarsoft sockliner provides excellent cushioning and impact absorption.
  • Stylish and Versatile: The clean design makes them suitable for various occasions and outfits.
  • Good Value: They offer a great balance of performance and price.

Cons:

  • Not the Most Ankle Support: Some skaters might prefer more ankle support.
  • May Wear Down Quickly: If you're an aggressive skater, you might wear them out faster.

Where to Buy the Nike SB Portmore II Solar

Alright, ready to grab a pair of the Nike SB Portmore II Solar? You've got several options. You can head to your local skate shop. This is a great way to support your local community and try the shoes on before you buy them. Plus, the staff at skate shops can often offer expert advice. You can find them at major sporting goods stores. These stores usually have a good selection of Nike SB shoes. Online retailers are another option. Websites like Nike.com, Amazon, and other online shoe stores often carry the Portmore II Solar. Make sure you check the sizing guides and read reviews before you make a purchase. Prices can vary depending on the retailer and any sales or promotions that are running. Generally, the Nike SB Portmore II Solar is a very affordable option for a quality skate shoe. Keep an eye out for sales, as you might be able to snag a great deal. If you are looking for the Nike SB Portmore II Solar, you have plenty of options. Just pick the option that you think best suits your needs, and enjoy your new shoes.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! The Nike SB Portmore II Solar is a fantastic skate shoe that offers a great blend of style, comfort, and performance. Its classic design, durable construction, and comfortable features make it a top choice for skaters of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these shoes will provide you with the support, grip, and board feel you need to enjoy your ride. The Nike SB Portmore II Solar is definitely worth considering if you're looking for a reliable and stylish skate shoe that won't break the bank. Happy skating, and keep those wheels rolling!